Internet Blackjack Tips And Strategy

As any veteran of the game will attest, to be a successful blackjack player requires a keen understanding of the odds as well as an expert familiarity with the strategy associated with each unique circumstance during the flow of a hand.

For many players the aim of the game is trying to get closer to 21 without going bust.  As a result novice players are often unprepared for its rigors and windup turning a relatively favourable game into a windfall for the house.

To complicate this further casinos both land-based and online often have subtle variations in the rules that affect the overall potential return.

Basic Blackjack Tips and Strategy

• Four decks are used
• Dealer must hit a soft 17.
• Doubling (double down) is allowed when a player holds a 9,10, or 11 only.
• Players must double down after splitting their hand.

Late surrender is allowed.

Avoid insurance. No matter what you’re told, never take insurance. It’s a bad bet that holds a house edge ranging from approximately 6 percent to as high as 7.5 percent.  This depends on the number of decks used.  In an international casino setting there are times when card counters can utilise insurance to their benefit, but an online casino where the cards are randomly shuffled for each hand, it’s a poor play and waste of money.

Ensure you know the rules. Blackjack has many variations. And we’re not just talking about online casinos. It’s not uncommon to find games with rules derived from tables in Atlantic City, Las Vegas (Strip), Las Vegas (Downtown), Reno-you name it. So even if you think you’re playing “traditional” blackjack there may be subtle rule variations that you’re unfamiliar with.  Be sure you know which version of the game you’re playing.

Obviously there is a lot more to mastering blackjack.  Master the basic strategy for whichever version you choose, and always be on the lookout for a better game with better odds.

Doubling Down-Hard Hands

What is a ‘hard hand’? It’s a hand that does not contain an ace. After the first two cards most casinos will allow you to double your bet and receive an additional card on your hand. If you time your doubling down wisely this can be a good move. The best time to double down is when you hold a total of 9, 10 or 11 with your first two cards hoping for a 10. However, before you venture down this path, the dealer must have a 3, 4, 5 or 6. This will increase your chance of winning something even if you receive the high card, the dealer may still go bust.

To double, place a bet equivalent to your original bet and say ”Double”. The dealer will now give you one card. It’s important that you double down at the right time and avoid ‘sucker bets’. When can must you turn the dealer down?

• When you hold a total of 11, double down against any dealer card except an ace.
• When you hold a total of 10, when the dealer shows 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 double down.
• When you hold a total of 9, double down when the dealer shows 3, 4, 5, 6.

A common trap to avoid is when you’re doubling down on 9 when the dealer shows a 2, 7 or 8. This looks tempting but if you don’t receive a 10 your odds at winning the hand are pretty slim. That’s it, that’s all to doubling down. Hope the aforementioned tips stand you in good stead when playing blackjack online.